String of Pearls
(Curio rowleyanus)
Intermediate - Not difficult, but it appreciates the right balance of light, drainage, and watering. Once you understand it, it's a wonderfully rewarding plant.
Personality
The whimsical wanderer of the succulent world. Playful, a little quirky, and happiest when cascading from a hanging basket like a strand of tiny green beads. It doesn't just grow - it drapes.
Water Needs
Allow the soil to dry completely between waterings. Like most succulents, String of Pearls stores water in its leaves and prefers a little neglect over too much attention.
Key indicator: Round, plump pearls are happy pearls. Wrinkled or slightly deflated pearls usually mean it's thirsty.
Light Needs
Loves bright, indirect light and enjoys a few hours of gentle morning sun. Too little light can lead to sparse growth, while harsh afternoon sun may scorch the pearls.
Think: "Hang me somewhere bright so I can show off."
Pet Safe?
NO - String of Pearls is considered toxic to cats and dogs if ingested and may also cause mild skin irritation in sensitive individuals.
Things to watch for
Overwatering
Poor drainage
Insufficient light
Rot at the base of the stems
Pearls becoming soft or mushy
The biggest mistake? Loving it with the watering can a little too often.
Common questions
Q. Why are my pearls shriveling?
A. Usually they're thirsty. If the soil is dry and the pearls look wrinkled, it's probably time for a drink.
Q. Why are the stems turning mushy?
A. That's almost always a sign of overwatering or poor drainage.
Q. Can I propagate String of Pearls?
A. Absolutely! Stem cuttings root easily when laid on top of moist soil.
Q. Why is my plant getting long but not full?
A. It likely wants more light.
Q. Should I grow it in a hanging basket?
A. Yes! String of Pearls truly shines when its vines are free to cascade.
Plant Lore & fun facts
String of Pearls is native to the dry regions of southwest Africa, where its trailing stems creep along rocky ground, allowing the pearls to stay shaded while still soaking up sunlight.
Those tiny green "pearls" are actually specialized leaves that store water, helping the plant survive long dry spells.
In the wild, mature plants produce tiny white flowers that smell surprisingly like cinnamon.
Nature really likes surprises.
popular varieties
🌿 String of Pearls
The classic trailing succulent with perfectly round bead-like leaves.
🌿 Variegated String of Pearls
Cream, green, and blush-pink pearls with extra whimsy.
🌿 String of Tears
A close relative with slightly teardrop-shaped leaves.
🌿 String of Bananas
Another cousin featuring curved, banana-shaped foliage.